The Canadian band Annihilator has been around for many years, all this under the strict guidance of chieftain and guitarist Jeff Waters. Most recent line-up exists of Jeff himself on guitars (and occasionally vocals) and vocalist Dave Padden (who plays rhythm guitar as well). In a live situation they are completed by bassist Dave Sheldon and drummer Ryan Ahoff. In this constellation they played at the 2008 Czech Masters of Rock Festival. The gig was filmed by five cameras in order to put together their first real live document on DVD.

The first DVD of Annihilator was released in 2006. ‘Ten Years In Hell’ was a fine compilation of video clips, interviews, behind the scenes footage and all kinds of funny stuff. However, this is the first DVD where you can watch the band in action on stage and nothing more. In this respect it is a good addition of above mentioned document. Nothing else to expect: ‘Live At Masters Of Rock’ shows the concert of one hour and a quarter and then we’re done. Sounds scanty? In our spoiled western civilization probably it is, but if ‘Live At Masters Of Rock’ is sold on genuine prices you have a proper document.

It all starts with footage of the Czech festival and undersigned has a very trusty image of it. That’s the spirit! In front of 30.000 metal heads, Waters and co perform a gig which is welcomed by the masses at the edge of dusk. They are not hysterical enthusiastic, but okay. Thus we can concentrate on the set list. Personal note: Jeff Waters has long hair again, better than this shaved-up head. Metal, you know? ‘King Of The Kill’ is after the intro a strong introduction of the band (sung by Waters himself). A bit later the most recent album – strictly called ‘Metal’ – is featured in songs like ‘Operation Annihilation’ and ‘Clown Parade’. But the classic ones are not missing! ‘Never, Neverland’ sounds rather calm for a thrash metal band, but furthermore we can swallow the bait with an anthology of the extensive back catalogue of a man who left the sinking ship SPV right before it sunk. Tight and professional, but surely not stupid! A song like ‘Wicked Mystic’ is not played daily, but the inevitable ‘Alison Hell’ eventually sets the roof on fire. The sound of this gig was perfected in Waters’ own Watersound Studio. Do not fear bootleg quality! And let me tell you: Waters know how to master his six strings!